The Regional Education Service Center (RESC) Alliance Food Trust: Paper & Supplies

Background

The Regional Education Service Center (RESC) Alliance Food Trust (RAFT) is a public purchasing consortium that serves various school districts in Connecticut. The Capitol Region Education Council acts as the administrative agent for RAFT. The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to solicit proposals for Paper & Supplies, which will be contracted directly with individual member school districts. The successful proposer will be responsible for invoicing each district separately.

Work Details

The selected vendor will provide paper and supplies to member school districts, ensuring compliance with nutritional requirements under USDA meal patterns for various programs including National School Breakfast, Lunch, After School Snack, and others. Vendors must submit nutritional analysis, CN labels, and signed product formulation statements with all items at the time of bid opening and on every order throughout the year. All products must meet health and safety standards established by relevant authorities. Deliveries must be made in sanitary conditions, with refrigerated trucks when applicable. The vendor must maintain a HACCP-based Food Safety Program and ensure all products are delivered in acceptable condition. A legible invoice must accompany each delivery, and only items that meet specifications will be accepted.

Period of Performance

The contract period is anticipated to begin on August 1, 2026, and end on July 31, 2027.

Place of Performance

The contract will be performed across various member school districts in Connecticut as specified by RAFT.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. They are required to provide proof of insurance coverage before commencing work. Additionally, vendors must submit a Non-Collusive Bid Statement (notarized), Certification Regarding Debarment and Suspension, Certification Regarding Lobbying, Vendor Indemnification form, Affirmative Action Statement, and Form of Contract as part of their proposal.